Study Programs
Høyskolen Kristiana Halts Admissions to Musical Theatre, Acting, and Dance Programs: A Blow to Students
On Friday, Høyskolen Kristiana (HK) delivered unsettling news to its students: beginning in the autumn of 2026, the institution will cease admissions to several beloved bachelor’s programs. The affected degrees include those in musical theatre, acting, and dance, particularly the jazz dance specialization.
Unexpected Decision
The announcement came as a surprise, with many students reporting that they had received no prior warnings regarding these significant changes. Current enrollees in these programs are assured that their studies will proceed unimpeded. Nevertheless, frustration is palpable among the student body.
“It feels like another blow to the arts,” said Maja Wiene Støldal, a third-year student in the musical theatre program, speaking to Universitas. “No one expected this. It’s infuriating and disheartening.”
Støldal emphasized that the implications of these cuts extend beyond HK alone. “It’s indicative of a larger trend where culture is undervalued. Economic considerations consistently take precedence over artistic endeavors.”
Margrethe Larsen Homme, also pursuing musical theatre, echoed these sentiments. “Cultural Norway will be less vibrant without these programs. At a time when the arts are crucial for our society, it’s disheartening to see such cuts being made.”
Homme added that the changes threaten the collaborative spirit fostered at HK. “We’ve had numerous classes that emphasized interaction between disciplines. It’s going to feel quite different if we’re just isolated in our silos.”
In response to the impending closure of these programs, Matias Steen Hauge, a former student in the musical theatre track, has initiated a petition to save the program. His campaign has garnered support from current students, alumni, and various organizations, including Creo Fagforbund and local theaters.
Looking Ahead
Kristin Arnesen, dean of the School of Arts, Design, and Media at HK, acknowledged the deep disappointment felt by students. “We are navigating a landscape of economic uncertainty, and many in the cultural sector are making similar adjustments,” she noted. “At HK, we must engage in a significant professional and strategic renewal of our performing arts education.”
Arnesen assured the community that the time ahead will be used to craft a new, comprehensive bachelor’s program in Performing Arts. This upcoming curriculum is designed to be less resource-intensive while aligning with the evolving dynamics of the performing arts industry.
“Our goal is to strengthen the performing arts scene and prepare our students for an ever-changing job market,” she explained. “I recognize that this news can be unsettling, and many are looking to the future with trepidation. While art and culture are more vital than ever, we must adapt and embrace innovative solutions to ensure their sustainability.”